Diagnosis of Chickenpox

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Chickenpox is usually diagnosed based on the rash. Blood and laboratory tests to identify the varicella zoster virus (VZV) are available for use in questionable cases, but they are rarely necessary.

Blood and laboratory tests—several tests are available that may help confirm the diagnosis of chickenpox, including:

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Chickenpox. American Academy of Family Physicians Family Doctor website. Available at:
http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/diseases-conditions/chickenpox.html.
Updated May 2010. Accessed February 29, 2016.

Chickenpox (varicella). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. Available at:
http://www.cdc.gov/chickenpox.
Updated August 22, 2013. Accessed February 29, 2016.